Ducati's 2026 Multistrada V4 RS Infuses Panigale's Power onto the Paved Highway, Equipped with 70 Sensors Drawn from MotoGP
The motorcycle world is abuzz with excitement as Ducati unveils the latest addition to its lineup – the 2026 Ducati Multistrada V4 RS. This high-performance adventure bike is set to revolutionise the way we think about versatile riding.
At its heart, the 2026 Multistrada V4 RS boasts a powerful 1,103cc Desmosedici Stradale V4 engine, the same as the Panigale V4. This engine delivers an impressive 180hp and 87lb.ft of torque, ensuring a thrilling ride whether you're cruising on highways or tackling twisty roads.
But the 2026 Multistrada V4 RS is more than just a powerful machine. It's designed to offer the perfect balance between everyday comfort and sport riding performance. The updated Öhlins Smart EC 2.0 suspension, with its four distinct modes, ensures a smooth ride on bumpy roads while providing the agility needed for sporty manoeuvres.
The bike's design retains its touring soul while incorporating serious track credentials. A new techno-polymer tail fairing, mounted on a titanium subframe, is lighter than the one on the Multistrada Pikes Peak. Carbon fiber components, such as the front mudguard, handguards, heat shields, and front beak, further help in weight reduction. The bike also features new five-spoke Marchesini forged aluminum wheels.
The 2026 Multistrada V4 RS is also equipped with the Ducati Vehicle Observer system, which brings 70 MotoGP-derived sensors to bear on everyday riding situations. The DVO algorithm processes real-time data to refine traction control, wheelie management, and other aspects of the bike's performance, making it safer and more precise on both road and track.
The bike's upgraded Brembo braking system includes a larger 280mm rear disc, ensuring reliable stopping power. The Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV tires, designed for both track duty and loaded touring, provide excellent grip in various conditions.
The 2026 Multistrada V4 RS is a numbered series production, each bike featuring a distinctive black anodized aluminum plate on the triple clamp with Italian flag graphics and sequential numbering. It's a bike that's as unique as it is powerful.
The 2026 Ducati Multistrada V4 RS arrives at US dealers in January with an expected price around $39,995. With its combination of power, handling, and versatility, it's set to redefine what an adventure bike can be. Whether you're a seasoned rider or a newcomer to the world of motorcycles, the 2026 Ducati Multistrada V4 RS is a bike that's sure to capture your imagination.
